PC: What's the Difference?
PC (polycarbonate) is a plastic with impressive properties. But did you know there are different types with similar compositions?
Properties That Distinguish PC
PC is known for its exceptional impact resistance. It's up to 250 times higher than glass. The material also has a relatively high resistance to chemicals. An important property is that PC withstands external impact without cracking. Plus, it can handle high temperatures. For shorter periods, PC can withstand up to 147 °C, and about 120 °C continuously, without deforming. This gives PC many uses. We often see PC used to build protective barriers. It's also used in kitchen utensils and CD/DVD discs. Despite its strength, the material is relatively easy to process. It can be drilled without risk of cracking. It can also be bent and formed without preheating. With flame retardant additives, good fire protection properties are achieved.
Advantages of PC
- Extreme impact strength (250 times better than glass).
- Easy to form and available in flexible designs.
- Handles high temperatures (up to 147 °C).
- High chemical resistance, for example, to gasoline.
- Can be drilled without cracking.
- Can be formed without preheating.
- Good fire protection (especially with additives).
Disadvantages of PC
There are also disadvantages. PC scratches easily. However, there are scratch-resistant coatings that reduce this problem. The material has a relatively high cost compared to glass or other thermoplastics. PC has limited clarity and can't be polished to restore clarity. It yellows and weakens from UV radiation if it isn't treated. External impact can easily cause dents or marks.
Uses for PC
PC is often used where impact resistance and durability are more important than appearance. The high impact resistance makes it suitable for protective equipment and protective barriers. Untreated PC isn't UV-resistant and yellows. But there are types with UV protection, which allow for outdoor use. Keep in mind that PC scratches easily and can't be polished back to its original finish. The material also can't achieve complete clarity, even though it's very transparent when new. PC can be manufactured in most colors and customized as needed. Therefore, it's often used in sports equipment, such as helmet visors, and in protective shells for electronic products. We often see PC in mirrors for public environments. PC can also be supplied with a mirror coating. The result is an almost unbreakable mirror. It's durable and safe in exposed environments.
Processing PC
PC is relatively easy to process. You rarely have to worry about the material breaking. However, the material's high strength requires sturdy tools. If you're unsure how to process PC in the best way, feel free to contact our plastic experts for advice.
Common Uses
- Window panes and windshields for vehicles.
- Greenhouses and conservatories.
- Drinking bottles.
- Protective cases for phones and computers.
- Helmet visors.
- Molds for casting.
- Protective screens.
- Ballistic protection devices.
- Mirrors in public environments.
Important Considerations When Processing
When processing PC, you need to consider the material's extreme impact resistance. Therefore, don't use traditional tools intended for wood. The material requires specialized equipment, such as waterjet cutting. Laser cutting is possible for thin dimensions (under about 2 mm). With thicker material, the heat can discolor the plastic. A fine-toothed miter saw can also be used, but cut slowly with a high rotation speed. PC is sensitive to UV radiation and yellows over time, unless it has a protective additive. Therefore, it's important to choose the right material for outdoor use. The same applies if the material is to be used as protection. There's PC with the addition of fiberglass, which makes it even more impact resistant. Have you considered whether PC is suitable for your application?
PC: Three Types of Polycarbonate